Dodge Caravan Transmission

Specifications

The Dodge Caravan transmission is fitted with the 62TE 6-speed automatic transmission, a transaxle system engineered by Chrysler specifically for front-wheel-drive (FWD) applications and commonly paired with the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine. This electronically controlled transmission is designed to balance performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency in a family-oriented minivan platform. It features adaptive shift logic that continuously adjusts gear changes based on driving conditions such as throttle input, vehicle load, and terrain, helping to provide smoother acceleration and improved drivability.  

An optional Auto Stick feature allows drivers to manually select gears when more control is desired, such as during highway passing or hill driving. In later models (particularly 2018–2020), the transmission is configured with a 3.90 first gear ratio, 2.69 second, 2.16 third, 1.37 fourth, 0.95 fifth, and 0.65 sixth gear, along with a 3.04 reverse gear and a final drive ratio of 3.16. These gear ratios are optimized to deliver strong low-speed torque for city driving while maintaining lower engine RPMs at highway speeds to improve fuel economy and reduce engine strain.    

Transmission Variant

6-Speed Automatic (62TE) – 2008–2020

The 62TE is the most widely used modern transmission in the Dodge Grand Caravan. It is a 6-speed automatic designed to pair with engines like the 3.6L Pentastar V6 (from 2011 onward) and earlier V6 options. It improved fuel efficiency, shift quality, and overall drivability compared to older 4-speed units, making it the standard choice in later models.

4-Speed Automatic (41TE / Ultra drive) – up to 2008

The 41TE, also known as Ultradrive, was the primary transmission in earlier Grand Caravan generations. This 4-speed automatic was simpler in design but less efficient by modern standards. While it provided adequate performance for its time, it is generally known for lower fuel economy and less refined shifting compared to later 6-speed systems.

6-Speed Automatic (62TE with VLP) – 2007–2020

The Variable Line Pressure (VLP) version of the 62TE is an enhanced calibration of the standard 6-speed automatic. It adjusts hydraulic pressure more precisely during gear changes, resulting in smoother shifts and improved efficiency. This refinement helped reduce wear and improve fuel economy, especially in later production years of the Grand Caravan.    

Frequently Asked Questions